CPS admits it could have charged stalker before he held woman at gunpoint

Senior prosecutor says it had enough evidence against Gareth Wyn Jones for harassing his ex-partner in Wales

The Crown Prosecution Service has admitted it had enough evidence to charge a stalker three months before he held his former partner hostage at gunpoint for eight hours.

A senior prosecutor conceded Gareth Wyn Jones should have been prosecuted for harassing Rhianon Bragg in north Wales before he ambushed her, and apologised for its failure.

In the UK, call the national domestic abuse helpline on 0808 2000 247, or visit Women's Aid. In Australia, the national family violence counselling service is on 1800 737 732. In the US, the domestic violence hotline is 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Other international helplines may be found via www.befrienders.org